Modular RF Imaging Panels for Complete Target Views
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing radio frequency (RF) imaging systems for airport security are large, expensive, and limited to stationary screening, failing to reconfigure for various applications and providing incomplete views of targets.
Innovation Solution
A modular RF imaging system comprising multiple antenna panels that can be assembled, scaled, and configured based on intended applications, using sparse antenna arrays for compressed sensing to reduce data acquisition and processing, and integrated with optical sensors and data processors for threat detection and image generation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single large antenna array is used for RF imaging, then the system can capture complete target views, but the system size and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides a large antenna array into multiple smaller, modular antenna panels that can be independently positioned and combined. Each panel contains a sparse array of antenna elements that can be strategically placed to achieve complete target coverage when multiple panels are used together, reducing the overall system footprint while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional planar array to a three-dimensional spatial configuration by positioning multiple antenna panels at different locations and orientations in space. This allows the system to capture complete target views through spatial diversity without requiring a single large planar array, effectively utilizing the third dimension to resolve the contradiction.
2Measurement precision
If a single large antenna array is used for RF imaging, then the system can capture complete target views, but the system cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the imaging system into multiple identical or similar antenna panels, each of which can be manufactured independently using standardized processes. This modular approach reduces manufacturing complexity and cost compared to building a single large custom array, while the combined panels achieve complete target coverage through their collective spatial arrangement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses multiple copies of the same antenna panel design rather than a single unique large array. Each panel is an identical or similar copy that can be mass-produced, reducing per-unit cost through economies of scale. The replicated panels are then positioned in different spatial configurations to achieve complete target views for various applications.
3Measurement precision
If an antenna rotates around a stationary individual, then the system can capture complete target views, but the system requires individuals to remain stationary and the complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional approach by making the antenna elements stationary and allowing the target to move through the observation domain. Instead of rotating antennas around a stationary person, multiple fixed panels are positioned to create a three-dimensional sampling volume that the target passes through, eliminating the need for the target to remain stationary while still achieving complete view coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic elements to the system configuration, allowing the antenna panels to be repositioned and reconfigured based on the specific application and target characteristics. The panels can be adjusted in position and orientation to optimize coverage for different scenarios, providing operational flexibility while maintaining complete target view capability.
4Reliability
If existing RF imaging systems are used for checkpoint security, then the system can screen individuals, but the system cannot reconfigure for other applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the antenna panels as universal, multi-functional units that can be deployed in various configurations for different applications. The same panel design can be used for checkpoint security screening, walk-thru screening, covert screening, and other RF imaging applications by simply changing the spatial arrangement and number of panels, providing both reliable screening performance and application versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the system dynamically reconfigurable, allowing the antenna panels to be adjusted, added, or removed based on the specific application requirements. This dynamic adaptability enables the system to transition between different screening modes and applications while maintaining consistent reliability, as the core panel design remains optimized for RF imaging performance.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The modular system allows for efficient, cost-effective, and flexible threat detection in various scenarios, including walk-thru and covert screening, reducing false alarm rates and system size while enabling the use of multiple configurations to improve detection performance.
Implementation Method 1
Each antenna panel can include a sparse array of antenna elements... to measure a target in an observation domain
Implementation Method 2
A sensor can be included to measure at least a spatial location of a target in the observation domain
Data Source
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Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A modular imaging system includes an antenna panels, a sensor, and at least one data processor. The antenna panels include an array of antenna elements including at least two antenna elements separated by a spacing more than a half wavelength. The plurality of antenna panels are configurable to be spatially arranged and oriented with respect to one another to measure radar returns of an observation domain for a target. The sensor has a field of view overlapping the observation domain and for measuring an image. The at least one data processor forms part of at least one computing system and is adapted to receive data characterizing the optical image and the radar returns, determine a spatial location of the target, and construct a radar return image of the target using a sparsity constraint determined from the spatial location of the target. Related apparatus, systems, techniques, and articles are also described.